Manager Derek Shelton’s decision to elevate veteran outfielder Andrew McCutchen to the leadoff spot has ignited a spark within the Pittsburgh Pirates, propelling them to back-to-back victories over the Milwaukee Brewers. Prior to McCutchen’s shift to the top of the lineup, the Pirates had endured a six-game losing streak, mustering a meager nine runs during that span. However, McCutchen’s presence at the helm has rejuvenated the team’s offense. The 37-year-old designated hitter has not only provided a consistent spark but has also instilled a sense of confidence within the team. In the first two games of the series against Milwaukee, McCutchen has batted 5-for-8, including a home run in each of the opening innings on both Monday and Tuesday. His contributions have played a pivotal role in Pittsburgh’s recent success. McCutchen remains unfazed by his placement in the lineup, emphasizing his willingness to contribute in any capacity. “As long as I’m playing, that’s all that matters,” he stated. “I don’t care about where I’m playing or where I hit, as long as I’m in there, doing my job, trying to help the team.” Pittsburgh’s triumphs against Milwaukee have not only snapped their losing streak but have also presented an opportunity for the team to secure a series victory for the first time since early April. They will face the Brewers once more on Wednesday in pursuit of this goal. The Pirates commenced the season with an impressive 3-0 series record, sweeping the Miami Marlins before claiming two out of three victories against both the Washington Nationals and the Baltimore Orioles. Subsequently, Pittsburgh split two series before suffering consecutive sweeps. Josh Fleming (1-0, 1.74 ERA) is slated to make his inaugural start of the season for Pittsburgh on Wednesday. The left-hander has exhibited remarkable consistency, not allowing a single run since April 12th. He has logged four consecutive scoreless outings, although he has yet to pitch beyond three innings in a game this year. Fleming will be making his first career appearance against the Brewers. Conversely, the Milwaukee offense has struggled in the series, amassing a mere three runs. Their inability to generate baserunners and capitalize on scoring opportunities has hindered their progress. The Brewers are 0-for-7 with runners in scoring position over the two contests, leaving 12 stranded. Despite the unfavorable outcome on Tuesday, there were positive takeaways for Milwaukee, particularly the performance of starting pitcher Tobias Myers. The 25-year-old right-hander conceded only one run on four hits across five innings during his major league debut. His commendable outing provided much-needed relief for the Brewers, who are grappling with a taxed bullpen and an injury-ridden rotation. “He was great. He gave us more than expected,” remarked manager Pat Murphy. “I thought he was poised. I think he rose to the occasion. We just didn’t give him any support. Great performance, really happy for the kid.” Catcher Gary Sanchez accounted for the Brewers’ solitary run with an eighth-inning home run. However, his overall offensive production remains modest, with just six hits in 36 at-bats this season. Bryse Wilson (2-0, 3.29) will assume mound duties for Milwaukee on Wednesday, marking his second start and eighth appearance of the year. The right-hander has maintained a 1.00 ERA over his last four outings, surrendering only one run on five hits in nine innings. Wilson, a former Pirates pitcher, boasts a 2-0 record with a 2.40 ERA in five career outings (two starts) against his erstwhile team.
McCutchen’s Leadoff Spark Fuels Pirates’ Wins Over Brewers
